There are as many adhesives as there are flooring options. Adhesives not only act as a bed but also help hold the tile firmly in place on a surface, whether it is a floor or a wall. There are many tile adhesives available in the market, each for a particular job and with different specifications.

Things to Consider

One of the main things to consider before placing tiles is the location and the use of the area. If the tiles are for the patio, the kitchen, the foyer or the bathroom will matter. If you intend to use them on your walls, you need to know whether the area is for a dry or wet use. You also need to consider if the tiles will be placed on drywall, plywood, or concrete.

You need to consider all these before deciding on which type of tile and adhesive you would use. If you use the wrong adhesive, the tiles are likely to pop out and get damaged.

Types of Tile Adhesives

Organic mastics are a popular choice with installers as they are pre-mixed and help to keep tiles in place. People use this adhesive with tiles in locations which are not exposed to heat or in exterior locations.

Thin-set mortar is another type of tile adhesive which has to be mixed by the installer, before application. This particular adhesive is also popular as it offers better bonding strength when compared to organic mastics. People use this in a wide range of locations and materials. It is a great fit for many kinds of tile application.

Water-mixed tile mortar is a combination of cement and sand. Mixed with water and applied to surfaces before setting tiles, it is a great choice as it lets the adhesive rehydrate.

Latex and acrylic mortar have properties which increase the adhesive feature and lower the water retention property. For most builders, this is a good choice for both wet and dry installations.

Preparation and Installation Process

Before installing tiles, make sure they are clear of dirt and other substances, like paint or oils. The surface should also be dry and clean. You also need to ensure that there are no holes in the floor or the wall. If you need to repair your wall, do it a day or two in advance using plaster, cement, or sand.

Based on the type of adhesive you will use, you shouldn’t add any other materials. Doing so will distort the bonding capabilities of the adhesive along with the water resistance of the material. You should closely follow the manufacturer instructions for the best results.

Choosing the right adhesive for the right application is important. The right choice can only be made knowing the properties of each adhesive.